fab 50

What is the TAAS Fabulous 50?

This program is designed for those new to astronomy, trying to understand the layout of the night sky and how to navigate to specific constellations, or for those curious folks who just want to know what astronomy is all about.

How Does the Fabulous 50 Program Work?

The program covers the four seasons each year (winter, spring, summer and fall) and is open to the public (bring your friends and family!). Each meeting begins with an indoor presentation about the observing targets for the current season. We then move outdoors for a guided laser tour of the night sky, after which you observe the current Fab 50 objects through binoculars and telescopes provided by TAAS members, who will showcase these wonders through various binoculars and telescopes, as well as welcoming your questions.

Can I Get the Object Lists?

The Fab 50 is divided into quarterly groups by season. Each season has its own collection of objects, which will be discussed at the in-person event. A list of each season's constellationsis listed below.

How Do I Find the Fab 50 in the Sky?

We use star charts from Skymaps to help you learn the night sky. These are free downloadable maps of the sky which you can obtain monthly by clicking here, or on the image below. These free maps are updated each month, and Fab Fifty will help you learn how to use them successfully.

Fab Fifty Constellations by Season

            WINTER            SUMMER
Ursa Minor the Lesser BearLyra the Harp
Taurus the BullCygnus the Swan
Auriga the CharioteerAquila the Eagle
Orion the HunterScorpius the Scorpion
Canis Minor the Lesser DogSagittarius the Archer
Canis Major the Greater Dog
Gemini the Twins
             SPRING             AUTUMN
Virgo the VirginCassiopeia the Seated Queen
Ursa Major the Great BearPegasus the Winged Horse
Leo the LionAndromeda the Chained Woman
Bootes the HerdsmanPerseus the Greek Hero
Piscis Austrinus the Southern Fish